Where Should a Brand Guide Live?

A brand guide is more than a PDF explaining a logo. It is the shared reference that helps everyone find the current files and use them consistently. The printer may need print-ready artwork and a web developer may need screen files, but both should use the same mark and color rules.

When “final,” “final2,” and “really-final” files are scattered across chat and personal laptops, an old draft can end up on a package. Redrawing a logo can change its spacing or proportions and make it harder to track who created the original and how it may be used.

Keep approved files at one address

Choose a shared-drive folder or wiki page that the team can keep using. Separate drafts from approved files, and include a version and approval date in filenames. For example: momobakery_logo_primary_2026-10-approved.svg.

• Primary lockups: Horizontal and vertical combinations, plus files for light and dark backgrounds

• Colors: RGB or HEX values for screens and CMYK or spot-color details for print

• Usage rules: Minimum size, clear space, and changes that are not allowed

• Channel exports: Vector files for print, PNG or SVG for web and apps, and a video-ready version

• Rights and approval: Contract location, permitted uses, approver, and approval date

Give each vendor only what they need

Send a printer the approved vector and print color values. Give an app developer the approved icon and rules for small sizes. Send a video editor a wide lockup with clear space around it. Add a simple instruction: “Use only the approved files in this folder; do not alter the mark.”

If a partner logo must sit beside yours, define the size and spacing. Do not ask the partner to reshape your symbol into a new combination. Check the source and permission for any outside logo or image you share as a reference.

A handoff note you can copy

“For this package print run, use the approved file momobakery_logo_primary_2026-10-approved.svg and the CMYK color table in the shared folder. Do not use chat screenshots or files in the draft folder. Keep the logo’s proportions and colors unchanged. If the mark approaches the trim line, send us a proof for approval first.”

When a new logo or color is approved, update the shared reference and export fresh files for web, print, and video. That keeps outdated files out of new work and helps the team and its vendors present one consistent brand.